Phrasal verb
allow for
Meanings
to consider something as a possible factor when planning or calculating
to make it possible for something by providing enough time, space, or resources
Definition
To allow for something means to include it in your plans or calculations so you are prepared for it.
If you allow for something, you take it into account when you plan, estimate, or decide. This often means adding extra time, money, space, or flexibility because something might happen. It can also mean accepting that a delay or change is possible and planning accordingly.
Examples
- I always allow for traffic when I drive to the airport.
- You should allow for a few minutes to set up the projector before the meeting.
- She allowed for mistakes by leaving extra fabric when she cut the pattern.
- They allowed for changes by choosing a flexible plan for the weekend.
Common mistake
Learners often say "allow of" instead of the correct form "allow for."
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.